How It Works: Callers posing as sheriff’s deputies reach out to individuals at random to inform them that they have failed to appear for jury duty, and have therefore had a contempt judgment levied against them. The deputies then offer to accept payment over the phone for the fine.

How to Avoid It:

Government offices do not call you to inform you that you’re in violation of anything.

They send you a letter through the postal service so you have a paper account of what transpired and any allegations against you.

They also do not accept payment over the telephone. If anyone tells you that you owe anything—from a fine to an overdue bill—do not pay them over the phone.

If you think you may be a victim of identity theft, contact the Identity Theft Resource Center for toll-free, no-cost assistance at (888) 400-5530.